Calling all mushroom lover and pasta lovers! If you’re looking for a way to elevate your weeknight meals with a unique, flavorful twist, then look no further than this incredible Chicken of the Woods Pasta Sauce recipe.
These vibrantly colored mushrooms aren’t just beautiful – they boast a meaty texture and earthy depth that translates beautifully into a creamy, satisfying pasta dish.
This vegetarian recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you still crave something comforting and delicious.
I’m obsessed with finding ways to incorporate foraged ingredients into my cooking. There’s something incredibly special about transforming a wild find into a delicious meal.
Today, I’m sharing a recipe that’s become a recent favorite: Chicken of the Woods Pasta Sauce recipe. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures, and I can’t wait for you to try it!
How To Prepare Chicken Of The Woods Pasta Sauce Recipe?
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Yield: Serves 4
Equipment:
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Pasta pot
- Whisk
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh chicken of the woods mushrooms, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1 sprig fresh thyme (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 pound dried pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine, spaghetti, pappardelle)
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Let’s Get How to Cooking?
1. Prep the Chicken of the Woods:
These mushrooms can have a bit of hidden dirt at the base. Gently brush off any debris and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the shallot and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. Deglaze with Wine (Optional):
If you’re using white wine, pour it into the pan and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine simmer for a minute or two, allowing the alcohol to cook off.
4. Introduce the Broth and Mushrooms:
Add the vegetable broth and chicken of the woods mushrooms to the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the liquid has reduced slightly.
5. Creamy Dreamland:
Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Pasta Time:
While the sauce simmers, cook your pasta according to package instructions. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
7. Bring it Together:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until well combined. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash or two of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
8. Serve and Savor:
Plate your delicious pasta and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Shower it with some extra Parmesan cheese, and get ready for a burst of woodsy, creamy flavor in every bite!
Tip: If your sauce seems too thin, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water) and whisk it in a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Special Note:
Chicken of the Woods mushrooms have a unique taste and texture that can add depth and richness to a variety of dishes. Experiment with different recipes to discover new ways to enjoy this versatile ingredient!
Nutrition Facts Chicken Of The Woods Pasta Sauce Recipe
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 450mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 55g |
| Dietary Fiber | 6g |
| Sugars | 8g |
| Protein | 12g |
Serving Suggestions for Your Chicken of the Woods Pasta
1. Get Fancy with Greens:
Toss in a handful of sauteed spinach, kale, or arugula for an extra dose of vitamins and a beautiful pop of color. Saute them with a drizzle of olive oil and garlic for added flavor.
2. A Touch of Crunch:
For a delightful textural contrast, consider adding some toasted breadcrumbs or chopped walnuts on top of your pasta.
You can toast the breadcrumbs in a pan with butter or olive oil until golden brown, or toast them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes.
3. Protein Powerhouse:
If you’re looking for a heartier meal, this pasta pairs beautifully with shredded chicken or tofu. Cook your preferred protein beforehand and add it to the pan with the sauce to warm it through. Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option.
4. Freshness Burst:
A final sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a lovely pop of color and freshness to the dish.
5. Cheesy Bliss:
For an extra cheesy indulgence, offer a side of grated Parmesan cheese for your guests to add at the table.
How Many Calories In A Pasta And Sauce Chicken And Mushroom?
This recipe uses heavy cream and cheese, so it will likely be on the higher end of the calorie scale. While I haven’t calculated the exact amount, each serving is likely around 500-600 calories
Conclusion
There you have it! This Chicken of the Woods Pasta Sauce is a testament to the incredible versatility of foraged ingredients.
It’s a delicious, satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. I hope you enjoyed this recipe and that it inspires you to explore the wonderful world of wild mushrooms.
So, the next time you’re at the farmer’s market or out for a hike, keep your eyes peeled for these vibrant orange beauties. They might just become your new favorite way to elevate your pasta night!
Chicken Of The Woods Pasta Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Sharp knife
- Cutting Board
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Pasta pot
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh chicken of the woods mushrooms cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 shallot finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine optional
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus extra for serving
- 1 sprig fresh thyme optional
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 pound dried pasta of your choice e.g., fettuccine, spaghetti, pappardelle
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken of the Woods:
- These mushrooms can have a bit of hidden dirt at the base. Gently brush off any debris and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the shallot and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Deglaze with Wine (Optional):
- If you’re using white wine, pour it into the pan and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine simmer for a minute or two, allowing the alcohol to cook off.
Introduce the Broth and Mushrooms:
- Add the vegetable broth and chicken of the woods mushrooms to the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the liquid has reduced slightly.
Creamy Dreamland:
- Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
Pasta Time:
- While the sauce simmers, cook your pasta according to package instructions. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
Bring it Together:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until well combined. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash or two of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Serve and Savor:
- Plate your delicious pasta and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Shower it with some extra Parmesan cheese, and get ready for a burst of woodsy, creamy flavor in every bite!
Notes
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